Dolly Parton’s Estate Withdraws Threatening Claims Against Nephew
On Thursday, Danny Nozell, the long-time manager of the late Dolly Parton, filed to dismiss a complaint alleging that Bryan Seaver, Parton’s nephew, had sent threatening communications to her estate.
Nozell, who oversees She’s Alive, the organization dedicated to managing Parton’s legacy, had previously obtained a temporary restraining order against Seaver and his security company, Squadron Augmented Protection Services, last September. He had aimed to transition this temporary order into a permanent injunction.
According to a brief filing with the court, the reason for withdrawing the complaint was not specified, as reported by The Associated Press. The document indicates that a proposed order is being prepared for the judge’s consideration, allowing the case to be dismissed without prejudice, meaning it can potentially be reopened in the future.
Details of a potential agreement between the opposing parties have emerged, though specifics remain undisclosed. A first hearing in the case was initially scheduled for the following Tuesday.
Seaver’s Response and Allegations
Seaver has denied the allegations of sending threatening messages directed at Parton’s estate. In documents filed in a Tennessee court, he characterized his interactions with Nozell as exchanges between close friends who were mourning and strategizing in the wake of Parton’s death on August 25.
Seaver asserted he had never issued threats against Parton’s business entities or associates. His statement pointed to text messages cited by Nozell as merely informal conversations among friends expressing frustration during a tumultuous time.
Background of the Dispute
In September, She’s Alive LLC terminated its contracts with Seaver and Squadron Augmented Protection Services, alleging that Seaver’s “intimidating conduct made their continued association impractical.” Legal documents asserted that Seaver initiated his campaign of threats prior to Parton’s passing, including intentions to “destroy the entire brand.”
Seaver defended his character, stating in an affidavit that he trusted Nozell, depicting their communications as an outlet for friends grappling with frustrations regarding their shared concerns for Parton.
Restraining Orders and Legal Actions
The initial restraining order was granted by Chancellor l’Ashea L. Myles, who recognized Seaver’s “claimed access to firearms, propensity for violence, and intention to retaliate.” This order mandated that Seaver refrain from entering any She’s Alive properties and prohibited any contact with employees or associates of the estate.
Announcing Parton’s Passing
Seaver was the official announcer of Parton’s death in a video released on August 25, where he expressed both pride and sorrow in his role as a family representative. He stated, “This video announcement is something Dolly asked of me years ago, before I fully absorbed it as a future reality.” Seaver vowed to honor Parton’s legacy and to ensure her spirit would remain alive through her family and close associates.
—With contributions from The Associated Press
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